Abstract for Wheat Germ Extract

Part# TM230
Printed in USA. Revised 10/09.
Instructions for Use of Products L4380 & L4330.

Promega Wheat Germ Extract is prepared by grinding wheat germ in an extraction buffer followed by centrifugation to remove cell debris. The supernatant is subjected to chromatography that separates endogenous amino acids and plant pigments from the extract. The extract is also treated with micrococcal nuclease to destroy endogenous mRNA and thus minimize background translation. Wheat Germ Extract and Rabbit Reticulocyte Lysate contain the cellular components necessary for protein synthesis (tRNA, ribosomes and initiation, elongation and termination factors).

Only the addition of exogenous amino acids (including an appropriate labeled amino acid) and mRNA are necessary to stimulate translation. Potassium Acetate is supplied as a separate component so that the translational system may be optimized for a wide range of mRNAs.